Saint Dymphna Museum

Design & Build - Gasthuismuseum - Geel

As far back as 1552, the Augustine Sisters Hospitallers were looking after the impoverished sick in the Geel Hospital. In 2005, the restoration and rehabilitation of the former clinic was completed, and since then it has been telling the story of the age-old tradition of caring for the sick. It also highlights the legend and adoration of Saint Dymphna, the Irish king’s daughter decapitated because she refused to marry him. This legend gave root to the unique, world-renowned system of psychiatric care for the patients in Geel. An audio-tour and a graphic trail guide the visitor through this story, with an interpretation of the objects and the sometimes slightly crazy practices.

Photo: ACT